Are people with O-type blood more attractive to mosquitoes?

Not really

The idea that people with a certain blood type (such as type O) are more likely to be bitten by mosquitoes is actually a common rumor.

Scientific research has not found a definite correlation between blood type and mosquito bite tendency. Although some studies suggest that people with type O blood may be more attractive to mosquitoes than people with other blood types under certain conditions, this is not the main factor in mosquitoes' choice of bite, nor does it mean that people with type O blood are more likely to be bitten. In addition, there is a contradiction that some scientific studies believe that type B blood is more attractive to mosquitoes. These research results have certain limitations and are not worth blindly believing.

The target that mosquitoes choose to bite is determined by a combination of factors. The most important factors include volatile organic compounds such as carbon dioxide and lactic acid released by the human body, as well as body temperature, sweat volume and the types of bacteria on the skin surface.

Generally speaking, people with higher body temperatures, faster breathing rates, or who produce more volatile substances after exercise are more likely to attract mosquitoes. Mosquitoes rely on smell, heat, and carbon dioxide concentrations to sense their targets.

In addition, mosquitoes bite in order to obtain protein and iron in blood, a behavior that is not affected by blood type. Different species of mosquitoes may have some preferences when choosing who to bite, but these preferences are mainly related to the mosquito species, living habits and environment in the area, and blood type is not a decisive factor.

In order to reduce the chance of mosquito bites, maintaining good personal hygiene, avoiding excessive sweating, using effective mosquito repellent products (such as DEET, Picaridin), and paying attention to the hygiene of the living environment are more effective preventive measures.

Author: Tang Jiaoqing, MD, attending physician of dermatology

Review | Feng Jun, deputy chief physician of the Dermatology Department of Sinopharm Tongmei General Hospital